Every year, many inmates are eligible for parole. Offenders become eligible for parole at various stages of their incarceration depending upon the statute they were convicted under.
In general, for a crime committed on or after July 1, 1998, a person is eligible for parole consideration once that person has served 1/3 of their sentence.
However, some for some violent crimes committed after March 2000, such as murder in the first degree, rape in the first degree, burglary in the first degree, arson in the first degree, child abuse, and child pornography, an inmate must serve 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
For crimes committed before July 1, 1998, the rules are more complex. A parole hearing is part of the parole process.
What Is Parole?
Parole is an early conditional release. It allows a prison inmate to be released early provided that inmate agrees to certain conditions. Adherence to those conditions is mandatory in order to remain on parole.
Parole Hearings
Parole hearings take place before the Pardon and Parole Board. The inmate’s file is reviewed and then the inmate is interviewed by the board members. Too often, an inmate attends the hearing without a Muskogee attorney and parole is denied. An inmate then usually has to wait another year to be reconsidered for parole.
Could A Muskogee Parole Hearings Attorney Be Helpful?
A parole hearing is an inmate’s chance to tell their side of the story and to convince the board that they are a good candidate for parole. Having an attorney represent you at a parole hearing increases the odds that that parole will be granted. Criminal lawyers in Muskogee, Ok. can help an inmate understand what the board will find persuasive and how best to present that information.
The board looks at an inmate’s conduct while in custody; the victim’s impact statement from the underlying crime; the number of previous felony convictions and the type of criminal violations leading to any such felony convictions; the presence or absence of suitable employment and residence available; and whether an inmate has acquired a GED. Okla. Stat. tit. 57 §§ 332.7, 332.8
These factors are weighed against issues of public and community safety and victims’ rights.
Having an experienced parole hearings attorney advocate on your behalf at your hearing can help the board understand your particular circumstances and the probability of successfully completing your parole period.
Possible Board Decisions
The Pardon and Parole Board may decide to:
- recommend parole for violent offenders to the governor;
- grant parole for non-violent offenders; or
- deny the request.
Initial Consultation With A Muskogee Parole Hearings Attorney
Parole hearings outcomes can mean freedom or continued incarceration. Having an attorney can make a difference in the outcome of your hearing. Our attorneys work with you to help you achieve a positive outcome.
Call a Muskogee parole hearings attorney today at 918-884-7774 with your questions. You may also schedule a low-cost, confidential consultation.